Here Pharmacy

Is it cheaper to pay for prescriptions using the pharmacy of your HMO provider or elsewhere?

I have Kaiser HMO and I've always used their pharmacy to get prescription medicine from the doctors (it's convenient since the pharmacy is right there in the medical center, but I'm wondering if everyone is just getting overcharged for that convenience on top of already expensive hospital bills). I was kind of curious if the offers from other prescription centers like Walgreens, etc. might offer better or competitive rates for the same quality of ingredients. Does anybody know?

Public Comments

1. I get generic at Wal-Mart and Target for $4, which is cheaper than the $10 co-pay my ins. charges for the same generic. Also, some places now give antibiotics for FREE (my local chain grocery store pharmacy does this.) You should call around to other pharmacies and find out what they charge. I have a presentation benefit card, but the retailers will give me whichever price is cheaper, or free. You don't necessarily have to yo\use your insurance benefit, even if you have it, if it is cheaper elsewhere.
2. Are you using a prescription benefit card or are you paying cash? If you're paying cash I would compare prices. If you're using a prescription benefit card you should pay the same no matter where you go unless your plan restricts you to a certain pharmacy, mail order for maintenace drugs, mail order for 90 day supplies, etc.